Dental Sealants in Goshen, IN
Cavities often begin in the deep grooves of your back teeth, where brushing can’t always reach. At Goshen Smiles, we offer dental sealants as a simple, painless way to help prevent tooth decay, especially in children and teens. These thin coatings protect molars by sealing out plaque, bacteria, and food particles. Dr. Deana Fugate provides sealants as part of a comprehensive approach to preventive dentistry for families throughout Goshen, Elkhart, Rieth Park, Midway, and nearby communities.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Sealants are clear or tooth-colored resin coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, where cavities are most likely to form. By creating a smooth, protective layer, sealants help:
- Prevent cavities in hard-to-clean areas
- Reduce the need for dental fillings later
- Support better oral health for kids and teens
- Strengthen at-risk molars during critical growth years
Sealants are often recommended soon after permanent molars erupt, typically around age 6 and again at age 12. They can also benefit adults with deep grooves or a history of decay.
What to Expect During a Sealant Appointment
Sealants are quick, non-invasive, and completely painless. No drilling or anesthesia is required. The entire process takes just a few minutes per tooth and can be done during your child’s routine dental cleaning and exam.
Here's how it works:
- The tooth is cleaned and dried
- A bonding solution is applied to help the sealant stick
- The sealant is painted onto the tooth’s surface
- A special light cures and hardens the sealant
After placement, your child can eat and drink normally. Sealants typically last 5 to 10 years, and we’ll monitor them during future checkups to ensure they remain effective.
Who Needs Dental Sealants?
Sealants are most commonly used for:
- Children ages 6 to 14 as their permanent molars emerge
- Teens with deep grooves in their teeth
- Adults prone to cavities or with early signs of enamel wear
- Patients with difficulty brushing due to physical or developmental challenges
While they’re not a substitute for brushing, flossing, or fluoride treatments, sealants provide an added layer of protection, especially for younger patients who are still building good oral hygiene habits.
Preventive Dental Care in Goshen
Dr. Fugate's approach to family dentistry is centered on prevention, comfort, and education. She has years of experience working with children and believes in creating a calm, positive dental experience to build lifelong habits.
Dental sealants are often part of a larger preventive plan that may include:
- Oral cancer screenings for adults
- Night guards for kids and teens who grind their teeth
- Nutritional and hygiene education for parents and children
You can learn more about Dr. Fugate's experience, including her military background and advanced general dentistry training, by visiting the Meet the Doctor page.
No Insurance? No Problem
As an independent, patient-first practice, Goshen Smiles offers care without insurance restrictions. We make preventive services like sealants accessible through CareCredit and Cherry Financing, so your child’s oral health never has to wait.
We're proud to serve Goshen, Elkhart, Middlebury, and the surrounding areas with friendly, transparent, and family-centered dental care.
Schedule a Sealant Appointment Today
If your child is getting their first molars or you're looking for an easy way to reduce future dental issues, sealants are a smart and affordable solution.
Call 574-533-6911 or book online to schedule your visit at Goshen Smiles. We’re located at 1213 W Lincoln Ave, Goshen, IN 46526, and welcome patients from across a 25-mile radius.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sealants
Do sealants hurt?
No. Sealants are applied quickly and painlessly without the need for numbing or drilling.
Are sealants safe for kids?
Yes. Sealants are widely used in pediatric dentistry and are approved by the American Dental Association and the CDC for preventing cavities.
How long do sealants last?
With proper oral care, sealants can last up to 10 years. We’ll monitor them during your child’s regular dental exams.
Can adults get sealants, too?
Absolutely. Adults with deep grooves in their molars or a history of decay can benefit from sealants as part of a preventive strategy.
Are sealants covered by insurance?
While many insurance plans do cover sealants for children, our practice also provides financing options to make them accessible without insurance.
Most patients benefit from visiting the dentist every six months. However, patients with certain conditions, such as gum disease, may need more frequent visits.
A Simple Step Toward a Healthier Smile
Dental sealants are one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent cavities in kids and adults. At Goshen Smiles, we make the process comfortable, affordable, and part of a personalized care plan.